Nishant Saxena
As schools in Uttar Pradesh prepare to reopen after the summer break, primary and upper primary students are getting an early opportunity to participate in programs marking the International Day of Yoga on June 21. In a directive issued by the Director of the Mid-Day Meal Authority, Vijay Kiran Anand, various education-related competitions will be organized for children on this special day, with the top three winners in each competition receiving rewards.
To celebrate International Yoga Day, the directive mandates the distribution of sweets, rice pudding, halwa, fruits, and clean drinking water to students in all schools. Compliance with these directives is mandatory. Additionally, on June 20, principals, teachers, and children of all primary and upper primary schools across the districts will be educated about the benefits of pranayama (breathing exercises), asanas (yoga postures), and breathing exercises. The participation of all individuals involved will be ensured, and principals will serve as nodal officers responsible for organizing yoga-related activities.
On June 21, principals, teachers, non-teaching staff, and students will be taught and encouraged to practice pranayama, surya namaskar (sun salutation), and breathing exercises. These exercises will also be conducted at the school level for the students. Moreover, schools have been instructed to hold poster-making competitions, essay writing contests, and quiz competitions on the topic of yoga for students in classes 6 to 8. Prizes will be awarded to the first, second, and third place winners in all activities. Students who excel in yoga will receive additional rewards in the form of sweets and fruits.
The state government has planned a week-long celebration of yoga from June 15 to 21, culminating in International Yoga Day. Throughout the week, activities such as yoga sessions, competitions, and sanitation drives have been scheduled. All public representatives have been encouraged to actively participate in the yoga programs on the main day.
With the initiative to engage young minds in yoga and promote its benefits, the state aims to create awareness and foster a culture of wellness among schoolchildren. This proactive approach reflects the commitment to integrate yoga into the education system and emphasize its significance for overall well-being.
Also Read: New Transfer Policy Makes Conditions Stricter for Teachers in UP Schools